can be trained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be trained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability of a person, animal, or system to learn or develop skills through training. Example: "Dogs can be trained to follow commands and perform tricks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Everything can be trained," Jongkind said.

The New York Times - Magazine

And resilience can be trained.

Harvard Business Review

"All cats can be trained," she says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Even an older dog can be trained.

The New York Times - Style

Focus can be trained and planned.

Harvard Business Review

Even empathy can be trained in adults.

Harvard Business Review

"Any person can be trained to be a fencer.

The New York Times

Currently, only 150 guards can be trained at one time.

The New York Times

A pigeon can be trained to do discriminate between letters.

The New Yorker

The birds can be trained to mimic speech and song.

The New York Times

Anyone with good eyesight and steady hands can be trained.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the training process use specific and measurable language to clearly communicate the goals and outcomes.

Common error

Be cautious about assuming that everything "can be trained". Some inherent limitations or predispositions might exist. Consider stating the degree to which something can be improved through training rather than making an absolute claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be trained" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the possibility or potential for someone or something to undergo training and acquire specific skills or behaviors. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard and usable phrase across many domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

23%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

8%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be trained" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates the potential for acquiring skills or improving abilities through instruction and practice. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable in diverse contexts. Analysis reveals its frequent use in "News & Media", "Academia", and "Science", demonstrating its applicability across various domains. Remember to use "can be trained" when you're referring to potential for learning and skill development but be mindful of overgeneralization by acknowledging potential limitations to training. Related phrases such as "can acquire skills" or "can develop proficiency" offer alternative ways to convey similar meanings, depending on the nuance you want to emphasize.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be taught

Focuses on the act of imparting knowledge or skills.

can develop proficiency

Emphasizes the development of expertise through training.

can acquire skills

Focuses on skill acquisition as the outcome of training.

can be developed

Highlights the growth and refinement of abilities through practice.

can be coached

Implies personalized training or mentoring.

can be mentored

Suggests a more informal and supportive training relationship.

is amenable to instruction

Highlights the receptiveness to learning and guidance.

can be prepared

Emphasizes readiness for a specific task or role through training.

can be educated

Focuses on formal education as a means of training.

can be disciplined

Highlights the development of self-control and adherence to rules through training.

FAQs

How can I use "can be trained" in a sentence?

You can use "can be trained" to describe the ability of someone or something to acquire a new skill or improve an existing one through instruction and practice. For example, "Even older dogs "can be trained" with patience and consistency".

What are some alternatives to "can be trained"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "is trainable", "can acquire skills", or "can develop proficiency".

Is it always appropriate to say something "can be trained"?

While many skills and abilities "can be trained", it's important to consider individual limitations and the potential for improvement. Avoid making overly broad claims and focus on specific aspects that can be developed.

What's the difference between "can be trained" and "can be educated"?

"Can be trained" generally refers to acquiring specific skills or behaviors, while "can be educated" implies a broader process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through formal instruction.